The beginnings of the modern computer were constructed early in the 20th century. In 1936 and 1937, Konrad Zuse designed and built a computer, an electrically driven mechanical calculator that read instructions from punched celluloid film. But, it was two decades later, in the 1950s when computers filled entire rooms, that the general population became aware of computers because of their rarity and size.
The Evolution of the Computerized Information
In 1953, almost two decades after Zuse’s invention, the first scientific, commercial computer with RAM was introduced. A little more than a decade later, programmable computers began to be used outside the professional world as individuals had them for personal use. In the mid-1970s, public schools received computers thanks to the generosity of certain companies. The widespread use of computers and the introduction of the World Wide Web (www.) became a boon to those seeking information on almost anything. These two factors added to the use of computers by people, along with their ability to communicate across continents and with family and friends miles away. Indeed, with access to companies and individuals anywhere, technology has made the world a smaller and more navigable place.
Finding Information on the Web
Aware of the ease with which consumers can access the Internet, many businesses have created websites describing their products and services and how to contact them. On these sites, consumers can find whatever information they need whether it be about the company’s services or relative to purchases made, such as tracking packages and information regarding when it will arrive at their homes. In the medical field, the Internet has been a boon to healthcare. For instance, having the Internet assists surgeons in locating organs that can be transplanted to a particular individual. Individuals can also use the Internet for their personal health questions or any other questions relative to their health. Certainly, the use of computers in healthcare and the business world cannot be underestimated.
The Unfortunate Dehumanization of Technology
While people have greatly benefited from the advantages afforded by technology, there has also been a downside. With the substitution of technology for human efforts, people have diminished their contact with others. For instance, rather than talking with family, friends, or fellow workers, people frequently check their phones for messages or calls. Rather than phoning someone, they may check Facebook or Instagram. Such dispassionate and mechanical activities can result in the loss of empathy for others. In one study, 60% of the participants admitted that they rely on technology too much and believe that it causes them to be lacking in kindness toward others. Another study found that 35% of people who own smartphones report checking their devices so often in a day that they have become indifferent to others around them.
Technology has led people to be distracted from enjoying company or their surroundings because they continually glance at their phones or are interrupted by messages or calls. Many individuals choose to neglect things like socializing with family or friends; instead, they may scroll through Instagram and Facebook for hours. As a result, they lose the human capacity to show kindness and empathy toward one another. As a result, they can easily become hollow and indifferent, losing what makes them truly human.